Marion W. Yates, Jr. was born in York to Marion W. Yates, Sr. and Thelma (Folkner) Yates May 31, 1956, and passed away unexpectedly Jan. 2, 2025, at Mary Lanning Healthcare in Hastings at the age of 68 years, 7 months, and 2 days.

Marion attended Lutheran school in his elementary years and graduated from Geneva High School in 1975. He worked in various areas of agriculture and ended a 30-year career with Norder Ag Supply in 2022. Marion was more commonly called “Rowdy” whether this name was given to mimic the Clint Eastwood character in “Rawhide” or earned, is still up for debate, but mostly by those who didn’t know him well. He lived life to the fullest and was kind enough to give the community and his family stories of his escapades that have survived for years. Family was the highest priority for Rowdy, and his many calls and visits will be missed.

Rowdy was also a hunting, boating, and camping enthusiast, but mostly he was a hard worker. He may have been accused of creating work just to stay busy, but this was when he was happiest.

Rowdy was married to Teri (McGowan) June 7, 1980. Three children were born to this marriage: Shannon, Ryan, and Brooke. While stories were told of his various youthful adventures, his children were also given stern warnings of what he would do if they were to repeat them. If they did repeat them, he remained blissfully oblivious at the time of his passing.

Rowdy was preceded in death by his parents, Marion, Sr. and Thelma.

Rowdy is survived by his wife, Teri; children, Shannon (Michael) Spies, Ryan (Kathy) Yates, and Brooke (Michael) Braun; grandchildren, Avery Braun, Keziah Braun, and Martin Yates; sisters, Cheryl (Gerry) Priest, and Dawn Nuttall; father-in-law, James McGowan; brother-in-law, Hank McGowan; sister-in-law, Ann (Ken) Knust; nephews, Shane Hansen and Ryan McGowan; nieces, Shelly Martinez, Paige Milliken, and Addison McGowan; as well as five great nephews and nieces.

A Memorial Service for Rowdy will be Friday, January 10, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Farmer & Son Funeral Home in Geneva. Lay Pastor Michelle Lessard to preside over the service.

The recorded selections “Amazing Grace” and “I’ll Fly Away” to play during the Service.

A private Committal of Ashes will take place at Geneva Public Cemetery at a later date.

Memorials are suggested to the family for future designation.

Farmer & Son Funeral Home are in care of the arrangements and online condolences can be left at www.farmerandsonfuneralhome. com.